Genesis 2:24 (KJV) “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”
Our Scriptural text is God’s foundational statement on marriage, given before the fall of man. This statement is timeless and universal. If true marriage is to occur, a man must LEAVE his father and his mother. This speaks of a shift in primary allegiance, from parental authority to marital responsibility. It does not mean the abandonment of his parents. We must honour our parents according to the Scriptures (Exo. 20:12; KJV). One of the ways we honour our parents is by “considering” their advice even when we are married. To “Leave” means emotional and decision-making independence. Marriage creates a new priority structure.
When a man (or woman) gets married, the most important human relationship in their life changes. Before marriage, a person’s primary allegiance (loyalty, responsibility, obedience) is to their parents. After marriage, that primary allegiance moves to the spouse. Decisions are no longer controlled by parents but made together as a couple. Parents are no longer the final authority. The spouse becomes the closest human bond. Couples must protect their unity from outside interference, even from well-meaning parents. You cannot fully cleave to your spouse if you are still CONTROLLED by your parents. May the LORD grant us understanding, in Jesus precious name.
Written by: Andrew A. Esemudje